Did we get here by accident? Did any of us? I think others observed, trained and then coached us to where we are. They saw in us something powerful, something of value, maybe a part of themselves. During our early formative years our coaches were in the schools or the community, and as we grew older more employable they were our supervisors, bosses, and our peers. They've continuously observed, trained and coached us to greater heights. Obviously, this is a two-way street. We must be willing to be trained and coached. A few thoughts: Observe: Growing up in Mount Vernon, I had several who observed. They were Dr. Ken Fox, Maria Perez, Diana Best, Danny Reyes and many others along the way. Did they look the other way because they saw a troublemaker, a son of poor migrant farm workers or less than average student? No. They nominated me to attend migrant youth conferences, law & constitution forums, pre-law conferences, and national & regional MEChA conferences. They listened … [Read more...]

Some weeks ago I was in Chicago for the United States Hispanic Leadership Institute (USHLI). Did some participants or presenters have accents? Of course. Truth be known, some of us who are bilingual or trilingual may speak with an accent. Some very thick. Some very obvious. Others not so much. Does it matter? Accents have never got in the way of some of our most prominent government, business, community and non-profit leaders. Just look around Portland, Oregon or our state capital in Salem, or Chicago. Observe those leaders that are driving their businesses and organizations forward with innovative and forward-thinking approaches, be it in sales, procurements, grants, new products and services, or new stores. Countless times, we've heard: while I may speak with an accent, I don't think with an accent. It's a kind reminder that all of us who are bilingual, or trilingual should not focus on this as a negative. Let's just get it done, shall we? David Molina is the Founder and CEO … [Read more...]